Who Could Star in a Live Action Remake of Disney's Hercules?

Who Could Star in a Live Action Hercules?

Disney's 1997 animated film Hercules is a beloved classic, known for its humor, adventure, and iconic music. With Disney producing live action remakes of many of their most popular animated films like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast, fans have been speculating about the possibility of a live action Hercules with real actors. But who could possibly fill the sandals of the mighty animated Hercules and his friends? Here's a look at some casting ideas for major roles in a potential live action Hercules.

Hercules - Alexander Ludwig

Taking on the lead role of Hercules himself would require an actor who can capture his strength, heart, and charm. Alexander Ludwig, known for his roles in Vikings and The Hunger Games, has the acting talent and physicality to play the demigod hero. Ludwig could lend the right balance of muscle, sincerity, and humor.

Megara - Liz Gillies

Snarky, cynical, but ultimately kind-hearted, Liz Gillies (Dynasty, Victorious) seems an excellent choice to bring the sassy Megara to life. Gillies has showcased her comedic timing as well as her ability to portray a complex and evolving character. The attitude and voice she could give Meg feels just right.

Philoctetes - Danny DeVito

Danny DeVito famously voiced the grumpy but dedicated trainer Philoctetes in the original animated movie. His inimitable voice and personality was perfect for the satyr tasked with shaping Hercules into a true hero. It would be hard to imagine anyone else taking on the role. DeVito has the stature, attitude, comedic skills, and existing rapport with the character to reprise Phil in live action.

Hades - Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston has shown from his Marvel outings as the villainous Loki that he can switch from charming to sinister in a heartbeat. That versatility would lend itself beautifully to the Lord of the Underworld himself. Hiddleston's smoldering charisma and graceful menace could electrify Hades while keeping the character's humor and complexity intact.

Supporting Cast

While Hercules, Megara, Phil, and Hades take the spotlight, a live action Hercules would need a talented supporting cast to inhabit gods, titans, and mortals alike. Here are some possibilities:

Zeus - Bradley Cooper

The ruler of gods requires someone who can convincingly command authority while reacting comically to Hercules' exploits on Earth. Bradley Cooper has the talent to bring all of Zeus' character strengths to life with power and humor.

Hera & Amphitryon - Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington (Little Fires Everywhere, Scandal) has the versatility to portray both Hercules' birth mother, the goddess Hera, and his earthly adopted mother, Amphitryon. She would lend empathy, warmth, and strength to both maternal roles.

Pain & Panic - Kenan Thompson & Billy Eichner

Hades' bumbling imp minions Pain and Panic provide plenty of the comic relief in Hercules along with plenty of slapstick. Comedic actors like Kenan Thompson (SNL) as Pain and Billy Eichner (Billy on the Street) as Panic could perfectly recreate their cartoonish chaos.

Songs & Mythology

Along with memorable characters, much of Hercules' charm comes from Alan Menken's Greek chorus gospel-inspired songs and references to actual Greek myths. To capture everything fans loved about it, a live action remake should incorporate:

Musical Numbers

While it might not be a full musical, a live action Hercules would be remiss without an adaptation of the animated film's musical highlights like "Zero to Hero" and "I Won't Say I'm In Love." Weaving the iconic songs into the story would please fans.

Mythical Easter Eggs

Details from the original myths, like appearances by the hydras, the titans, or Nymphs, would ground Hercules in its Ancient Grecian source material. Peppering in nods to famous parts of the myths would add richness.

Whether or not Disney actually produces a live action Hercules, fans will certainly still dream cast their ideal versions. It will be exciting for viewers to experience a whole new take - even for seasoned heroes like Hercules, going the distance is worth enjoying all over again when the time comes.

FAQs

Is Disney actually making a live action Hercules movie?

There has been no official confirmation yet from Disney on plans for a live action Hercules film. However, given the recent success of other live action remakes of their classic animated movies, many fans speculate it could happen someday.

Who would play the starring roles?

Fan casting suggestions include Alexander Ludwig as Hercules, Liz Gillies as Megara, Danny DeVito returning as Phil, and Tom Hiddleston as Hades. The casts for Disney remakes often bring together some big name stars.

Would it have musical numbers like the original?

Since music like "Zero to Hero" and "I Won't Say I'm In Love" are so iconic, fans hope any live action Hercules would find ways to incorporate the songs into the story much like the remakes of Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin did.

Would they stick to the original myth plots?

The animated film took some liberties with Greek mythology, but wove in nods to the iconic tales. Fans speculate any remake would reference more parts of the myths while likely keeping to the same overall plot that made the Disney version so beloved.